Who is at Risk? Anybody can develop a sensitivity or a allergic reaction to latex at any time in their life, those with the greatest chance of developing an allergy are: • Healthcare professionals and those who regularly come in to contact with latex products. • Those who are allergic to any of the following: Bananas, Avocadoes, Chestnut, Potatoes, Figs, Passion Fruit, Kiwi Fruit, Tomatoes, Apples, Celery, Melons, Pineapples, Papaya, Grapes & Milk • Those with existing skin conditions such as eczema other allergies such as hay fever How to minimise the risk: • • • • • • Choose powder free gloves Wash your hands after wearing latex gloves and make sure that you dry your hands thoroughly Do not wear latex gloves for longer than necessary Change gloves between patients. Do not use oil based hand creams or lotions with latex gloves Cover any breaks in the skin before donning latex gloves If you do develop a reaction to latex cease using latex based products and seek alternatives where possible. How to spot a reaction: There are two main types of reaction, delayed and immediate. • In a delayed reaction the symptoms are often an itchy, swollen, red rash that occurs after exposure to direct contact to latex • In a immediate reaction the symptoms can vary and include rash, hives, facial swelling, respiratory distress, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, collapse and rarely anaphylaxis. First Aid and Treatment for Allergic Reactions: • • • • • • • Recognise the symptoms of a reaction Promptly remove contact with the likely cause if possible Sit of lie the victim down Ensure the air way is clear, loosen restrictive clothing Seek urgent medical attention if the patients continues to be unwell/distressed Make a note of previous medical history, including any other allergies Assist the patient with any medication that they would normally take For more information please contact HPC Healthline Ltd, who will be happy To provide further literature and information on 020 8335 36 36. HPC Healthline Limited Colwood House 158 Garth Road Morden, Surrey SM4 4LZ Tel 020 8335 3636 Fax 020 8335 0300 E [email protected] W www.hpchealthline.co.uk